Basingstoke Bison have secured the signing of Czech defender Jakub Barton for the 2016/17 season.

The 35-year-old complete Bison’s roster for the upcoming campaign, bringing a wealth of experience to the blueline as they bid to successfully defend their EPL title.

Barton has spent the majority of his career with HC Olomouc, captaining them to promotion to the top flight in 2014.

Bison boss Doug Sheppard said: “I couldn’t be happier to be bringing Jakub to Basingstoke for the upcoming season.”

“From the moment his résumé became available he became my number one target.

“The feedback we’ve received on him is extremely positive and fits in with the atmosphere I’m trying to build upon here.

“Having played alongside Petr Polodna last season too, it should make his integration into the squad easier and I can’t wait for him to line-up on Wednesday.”

Bison host Swindon Wildcats in their final pre-season game on Wednesday ahead of Saturday’s first league game at home to Telford Tigers.

(Image permission: Jiri Mokry)